Although most mudslides and landslides tend to occur without warning, effective mitigation comes from understanding this natural danger and following certain rules can help you to protect your family and home.

Inform yourself on the geology of your area and on the possibility of mudslides/landslides.

Avoid activities that can lead to instability in the area.For example, don’t dig on a steep hill, don’t build at the top or foot of a steep slope, don’t fill in steep slopes, don’t drain pools on a steep slope, and finally, avoid anything that will increase the rate of flowing water down a steep slope.

Learn to detect possible risks in your region.Here are some examples: a crack or bulge in a slope, an unusual flow of water on a steep slope, or a small collapse of rocks or sediment.

Know whom to call in case of an emergency.(Who are your first responders?Are there municipal engineers you should call?)

What to Do In Case of a Mudslide/Landslide

If You’re Indoors

Barricade yourself in the part of the building furthest away from the mudslide /landslide.

Protect yourself under a table or other solid surface.

Brace yourself in place and don’t move until all movement from the mudslide /landslide has ceased.

If You’re Outdoors

Get as far away from the landslide’s probable path and stay away from steep banks, trees, and electrical wires or poles.

Avoid an area that has just had a landslide.In the hours and days that follow a landslide, the slope is susceptible to another one.